U.S. Move toward CTBT Continues Momentum to Reduce Nuclear Risks

In response to Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Ellen Tauscher’s statement today announcing the Obama Administration’s intention to begin efforts to secure Senate ratification of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty, the leadership of the Ploughshares Fund has issued the following statements:

“We strongly agree with Under Secretary Tauscher that Senate approval of the New START Treaty has opened the door for approval of a test ban treaty and other steps to strengthen American national security by reducing the threat of nuclear terrorism and proliferation. The outcome of the New START vote was the product of a new bipartisan security consensus, backed by America’s military leaders, that we must reduce the risks posed by nuclear weapons. Clearly, the American public won’t tolerate those who would play politics with America’s national security.”

– Joe Cirincione, President

“Today’s announcement demonstrates that the Obama Administration is serious about its commitment to a sound nuclear security policy. Pursuing the CTBT is a sensible way to reorient our defense posture to address today’s threats, rather than the Cold War threats of the past. As the death of Osama bin Laden reminds us, we are past the time when nuclear arsenals could provide any tangible security benefits. Instead, their existence increasingly puts us at risk.”

-Paul Carroll, Program Director

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Ploughshares Fund is the largest grantmaking foundation in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to security and peace funding. For more information, please visit www.ploughshares.org.